Rio Tinto Diamond’s Marketing Manager in India Resigns

Nirupa Bhatt, Rio Tinto Diamonds’ marketing manager in India has resigned. She will step down as of December 1.  

Bhatt has been with Argyle Diamonds since the inception of its India office in 1989, and continued in the industry when the firm was taken over by Rio Tinto. She has been responsible for initiating a number of programs for the Indian diamond industry including the Indo-Argyle Diamond Council (IADC) and the Business Excellence Model (BEM). 

The IADC initiative is widely acknowledged as having changed the perception of Indian jewelry in the U.S. and a great boost to the country’s jewelry exports.

The BEM is an industry specific certification for business practices and standards for exporters and retailers.

Bhatt has also been instrumental in nurturing client relations for Argyle Diamonds and then Rio Tinto Diamonds. In a male dominated industry, Nirupa has been one of women to have played such a significant role.

She has received many honors for her achievements including the “Doyenne of the Year” award from the U.S.-based Indian Diamond and Colorstone Association (IDCA) in 2002; the “Eminent Personality of the Year” award from The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council in 2003; and the Women’s Jewelry Association’s (WJA) “Award for Excellence” under the category of Special Services & Education in 2005.

“Nirupa has rendered an exemplary service to the Indian gems and jewelry industry,” said Sanjay Kothari, chairman of the GJEPC.

“She has been particularly instrumental in growing sales of Indian jewelry in the U.S. through the IADC program. She has also been a true friend of the Indian diamond industry and the GJEPC, closely participating with us on many programs, giving selflessly of her time and effort. I hope she continues to be a part of this industry and wish her every success in her future endeavors.”  

Ketan Parikh, senior partner at Mahendra Brothers says that Bhatt's initiative with the IADC benefited the entire jewelry segment and “made Indian jewelry manufacturers aware of the needs and requirements of the U.S. market,” while “the BEM has been a boon to domestic manufacturers.” He also recalled her active and tireless involvement in the relief work carried out by the GJNRF following the Gujarat earthquake in 2001.